Sat Feb 01 05:46:34 UTC 2025: ## India Unveils Budget 2025: Focus on Farmers, Growth Amidst Global Uncertainty

**New Delhi, February 1, 2025** – Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today presented India’s Union Budget 2025-26, the second full budget of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term. Presented to a parliament keenly watching amidst rising inflation and global economic slowdown, the budget prioritizes growth and support for key demographics.

The budget, Sitharaman’s eighth, includes significant provisions for the agricultural sector. This includes increasing the Kisan Credit Card limit from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh, a special package for Makhana (fox nut) farmers in Bihar, and initiatives targeting farmers in 100 districts, benefiting an estimated 1.7 crore farmers. Increased focus on boosting crop yields forms a core component of the agricultural strategy.

The Finance Minister highlighted the robust growth of the Indian economy and projected continued strong performance. The budget, described by PM Modi as focusing on “GYAN” (Garib, Yuva, Annadata, Nari – Poor, Youth, Farmers, Women), aims to benefit these key groups. However, opposition parties protested during the speech.

While details are still emerging, expectations centered around tax relief for the middle class, with calls for a new tax slab of 25% for incomes above ₹15 lakh. The budget is also expected to include measures boosting domestic consumption.

Pre-budget analyses from organizations like EY predicted a significant increase in capital expenditure to stimulate economic activity. Others, such as DBS, advised a focus on fiscal consolidation and avoidance of populist measures. The full budget documents are available on indiabudget.gov.in. The budget speech was broadcast live on Parliament TV, Doordarshan, and various social media platforms.

Read More